The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH1, a Creative HD Hybrid, Offers Professional-Level Still Photos and HD Video Performance Yet is Easy Enough for Entry-Level DSLR Consumers.
“Photographers of all levels – professionals, amateurs and beginners – will be stunned by the range of creative possibilities that the LUMIX GH1 creates in the world of high-quality photography and HD video. Users will be equally amazed by the camera’s easy-to-use design and small size,” said David Briganti, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Beyond its creative potential, the LUMIX GH1, a sister product to the award-winning LUMIX G1, is also innovative and differentiates itself from the pack by recording High Definition video with continuous AF, an indispensable feature for practical video recording.”
In late 2008, Panasonic redefined the traditional DSLR category with its launch of the Panasonic LUMIX G1 – a digital, interchangeable lens camera system that takes the radical step of eliminating the large, internal mirror structure that is currently contained in all traditional DSLR cameras. This innovation allows for dramatically smaller camera body and lens sizes and permits many new, advanced consumer features such as LUMIX G1 “Live View Finder”.
The advanced technology of the DMC-GH1 has enabled a level of image expression that never before existed. It brings a gentle, soft focus to both the DSLR’s high image quality photos and full-HD movies at 1080/24p, and enhances every single shot with the beauty of HD. Its new kit lens also provides Continuous AF/AE for both photos and movies, creating a next-generation interchangeable lens system camera. In addition, all of these advanced functions are incorporated in an incredibly small body. This compact size was achieved by using a mount system that complies with the Micro Four Thirds System standard, together with an innovative mirror-less structure in a digital interchangeable lens camera. The DMC-GH1 realizes creative images that exceed even your loftiest expectations.
The DMC-GH1 can record full-HD movies at 1080/24p in AVCHD with a Continuous AF/AE function. And, a stereo microphone, featuring Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator, records high quality audio. Just press the Motion Picture button, and shooting begins. In the Creative Movie Mode, the shutter speed and aperture can be adjusted. In addition, a wide expressive range, from ultra wide-angle to telephoto, is at your fingertips by replacing the interchangeable lens camera. The iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode can also be activated in movie recording for easy, casual shooting. When the DMC-GH1 is connected to a Panasonic VIERA via an optional mini HDMI cable, the TV’s remote control unit can be used for even more convenient playback.
Full-HD (1920 × 1080) movies are output by the image sensor at 24p (NTSC)/25p (PAL), and recorded at 60i (NTSC)/50i (PAL). HD (1280 × 720) movies are output and recorded by the image sensor at 60p (NTSC)/50p (PAL).
Careful attention to shooting styles led to full manual control, as well as a LVF (Live View Finder) and free-angle LCD both with Full-time Live View. Highly unique levels of expression are enabled by My Color Mode and Film Mode. The 4/3-type 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor in the DMC-GH1 makes this possible by creating images with stunning quality.
The DMC-GH1 also includes the iA Mode*1, a feature that took the world by storm in LUMIX digital compact cameras. This mode has been further enhanced by the addition of Face Recognition, a function that “remembers” faces. The faces if important people can be memorized, so they can be recorded with optimal focus and exposure at all times.
The DMC-GH1 breaks new ground in styling too, overturning interchangeable lens camera conventions by giving users a variety of body colors to choose from. While traditionalists can choose authentic black, others will enjoy the appealing gold and red colors available. The bodies also feature specially textured coatings and designs that rest snugly in the hand. For people who have been hesitant about moving up to an interchangeable lens camera, the DMC-GH1 is a perfect fit. With its exceptional mobility and features, it offers a new style of photography, and with its design and color selection, it offers a new sense of camera style.
